Kindersley Pass Trail
Kootenay National Park, Radium Hot Springs, BC, Canada
( hiking, sightseeing )

Kindersley Pass Trail is a full day hiking adventure exploring forested valleys and mountain peaks in the Kootenay National Park of British Columbia, Canada. The national park is a popular destination for many who enjoy adventure, wildlife and sightseeing when visiting the village of Radium Hot Springs.

Kindersley Pass Trail starts from Hwy #93. The one-way trail explores 10 kilometres through second growth trees, leading up to an alpine tree line and then onto the Kindersley-Sinclair Summit. The entire trail will take about 4-6 hours to complete. The time required to complete the trail depends on the amount of rest breaks, weather and fitness.

The Kindersley Pass Trail is an uphill hike with switchbacks leading up to summit views. From the trailhead to the summit hikers will experience an elevation gain of 1130 metres. The section of the trail after the pass, as you hike to Kindersley Peak, is one of the more difficult sections with switchbacks. It is here at Kindersley Peak hikers can connect to the Sinclair Creek Trail and hike back down. Some hike back down the same trail they hiked up.

The Kindersley Pass Trail starts off under a forest of trees before leading up to an alpine tree line. Hikers begin to see the views of Kindersley Pass at about the 7-8 kilometre mark. The hike continues to an elevation of 2395 metres ( 7784 ft.).

From the summit the views of the entire valley are exposed. On a clear day hikers can see Mount Sinclair, Mount Kindersley and Devil’s Tooth. The best time for hiking this trail is from Mid July to late August. Hikers who enjoy flowers will enjoy the colors on this hike generated from the wild roses, yellow columbine, Indian paintbrush, cow parsnip, fireweed and blue clematis.

The Kindersley Pass Trail is, often, wet and slippery. Temperatures and weather can make sudden changes at the alpine levels. There are exposed tree roots, deadfall trees, avalanche chutes and boulders located along the trail. Good footwear, equipment, water and layering of clothing is important on this hike.

How to Get to the Kindersley Pass Trail :

Travel to the village of Radium Hot Springs. From the community travel along Hwy #93 into the Kootenay National Park. Enter the park from the 'west gate' . Continue past the gate for 8.5 kilometres. Look for a small parking area and trail sign on your right. Across the highway is the trailhead to the Kindersley Pass Trail.

Important Note: To explore in the Kootenay National Park one must obtain a park pass. Passes are available in the community of Radium Hot Springs or through any national park office.